QMI Agency

The long-time Los Angeles Laker has had a "running bet" with an "associate" that Katy Perry will outlast Justin Bieber, according to the New Yorker. Bryant thinks an inevitable fall from grace is in order for Bieber, the embattled 20-year-old Canadian pop star.

The magazine recently profiled Bryant, a former teenage sensation himself, and revealed the five-time NBA champion has more confidence in female singer Perry.

The Philadelphia native has grown concerned for the Bieber, especially since he was nabbed after allegedly drag racing while under the influence in January, and believes Perry will stay in the limelight longer than Bieber.

Bryant, meanwhile, has not avoided controversy himself. In 2003, he was accused of sexual assault. The accused refused to testify, leading to an out-of-court settlement.

Bryant is a 16-time NBA all-star who has played his entire career for the Lakers. He broke into the NBA at 18, straight out of high school.